Pest Prevention: Three Easy DIY Tips

(Family Features) Each year, uncontrolled bugs, including, beetles, cockroaches, ants, centipedes, sow bugs and box elder bugs, are a relentless annoyance that homeowners across the country fight to keep out of their homes.

Homeowners are faced with the uncomfortable prospect of these home invaders sullying their well-kept abodes, hiding in cracks and corners, searching for food and dragging in dirt and grime. These critters even invade the most private residential areas, including bedrooms and bathrooms.

This year, with the help of Raid Max Bug Barrier and DIY Expert Lou Manfredini, homeowners will be able to take measures to help stop unwanted bugs. Manfredini has teamed up with Raid to give homeowners tools and preventative tips to ensure any home is prepared before unwanted bugs attack. His tips have given homeowners across America the confidence and peace of mind that their families and homes are protected against uncontrolled pests.

"As a contractor, one of the issues I often came across when tearing down walls was finding a bug infestation," said Manfredini. "Infestations can be easily handled with a few smart home solutions that start to work in minutes and can be long-lasting. It's all about being prepared."

Prepare, Prevent and Patch

As a DIY expert, homeowners frequently ask Manfredini how they can get their home to look its best, maintain its value and keep unwanted bugs away. Manfredini shares three key guidelines for approaching home improvement and repelling pests: prepare, prevent and patch.

Prepare the Deck

Before the family starts spending more time on the deck, take a close look at wooden planks and the foundation for signs of rotting or splitting. Walk the deck carefully while checking for protruding nails, loose railings and other safety hazards. After making any needed repairs, carefully clean and re-seal the wood. A pressure washer will do a great job getting the deck clean. Then let it dry for at least 48 hours before applying an oil-based deck stain. Also, check for signs of potential bug infestations. To help keep unwanted bugs out of the home, spray the perimeter with Raid Max Bug Barrier.

Prevent Uncontrolled Pests

As the warmer months roll in, so do uncontrolled pests and bugs. Cockroaches, ants, box elder bugs and centipedes prefer to lurk under the kitchen sink or behind walls, potentially causing unseen infestation. Manfredini recommends Raid Max Bug Barrier; the automatic battery operated trigger lays down a continuous stream of formula which starts working within minutes and is long-lasting. Simply spray the entire perimeter of the home indoors and out, paying special attention to gaps in the walls, doors and windows where insects can enter the home.

Patch the Walk

Before summer officially begins, check the driveways and walkways. If they're pitted, chipped or cracked, consider repairing them and re-sealing with an asphalt or concrete sealer. Patching these surfaces helps stop ants from nesting near the home.

"Ultimately, the biggest mistake to home maintenance is not doing it," Manfredini said. "With people spending their money cautiously these days, prevention is key."